Driving Our Community Forward
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As I complete my first year as superintendent of Blue Valley, I've found myself reflecting on the people and experiences that shaped this remarkable year of listening, learning and engaging. One thing has become clear: Blue Valley is a community deeply committed to ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive.
This spring, I was struck by the stories students shared during celebrations honoring our 1,719 graduates. Some spoke about academic achievement, while others reflected on overcoming challenges, belonging or pursuing unique paths after graduation. Their experiences were different, yet each reflected the same truth: Blue Valley creates opportunities for students to discover who they are and who they want to become.
That may be what has surprised me most since returning home to Kansas. Sometimes, people outside our district assume Blue Valley is one thing — highachieving students with a single definition of success. Instead, I've found something more meaningful. Blue Valley is a place where students with diverse talents, challenges and dreams are supported and encouraged to grow.
One thing I noticed throughout this year is the positive culture and sense of purpose present in our schools. I see students engaged with one another, classrooms focused on learning and collaboration and educators who know their students well and care deeply about them. I also see thoughtfully maintained facilities and learning spaces, thanks to voter support of the 2023 no-tax-rate-increase bond referendum, designed to support students and staff while ensuring there is something for everyone in Blue Valley.
As Blue Valley celebrated its 60th year, I found myself thinking about what has defined this district across
six decades. I believe our greatest strength is not simply our reputation for high achievement. It is our unwavering commitment to ensuring every student has access to the opportunities and support they need to succeed.
Supporting every learner also means advocating for the resources our students need to succeed. Recently, Blue Valley joined the De Soto, Olathe and Shawnee Mission school districts in forming the Kansas Public School Funding Coalition to address the State of Kansas’ continued failure to fully fund special education as required by law. This effort is about ensuring all Kansas students receive the educational opportunities and support they deserve. To learn more about the coalition, visit bluevalleyk12.org/KSPSF-Coalition.
As we look ahead, the world our students are entering is changing rapidly. Our responsibility is not simply to prepare them for their future, but to help them become curious, adaptable and confident learners who know they belong and know they matter.
Looking back on my first year in Blue Valley, I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to learn from and serve this extraordinary community. Blue Valley’s legacy was built over six decades through high standards, strong relationships and a belief in every student. I am honored to continue this work alongside a community that cares so deeply about its students and their future.
15020 Metcalf Ave.
P.O. Box 23901
Overland Park, KS
66283-0901
913-239-4000
Gillian Chapman, Ed.D.
Board of Education
Dr. David Benson
Jodie Dietz
Dr. Sonya Evans
Patrick Hurley
Jan Kessinger
Gina Knapp
Clay Norkey
Website www.bluevalleyk12.org
For more information about Blue Valley Today, contact the Communications Department at 913-239-4047.
Gillian Chapman, Ed.D.
COMMUNITY INVESTMENT, STUDENT IMPACT: Bond 2023 projects come to life across Blue Valley
When Blue Valley voters approved the district’s most recent bond issue in March of 2023, they invested in more than buildings. They invested in students and the future of public education in the community. Today, that investment can be seen across the district in learning environments designed to support safety, innovation and exceptional student experiences. From redesigned classrooms to upgraded activity spaces and enhanced security measures, projects once outlined in planning documents are now a part of Blue Valley’s legacy.
Since Jan. 31, 2023, when the Blue Valley community overwhelmingly supported the district’s vision by passing a $251.25 million no-taxrate-increase bond referendum, projects have remained on schedule with completion of all major projects by the end of 2026.
district
Bond 2023’s signature project was the construction of the district’s new middle school, Wolf Springs Middle. Located in the southern part of the district, Wolf Springs Middle will be a school community that inspires and empowers learners to collaborate, create and innovate by fostering the joy of learning.
“I am so excited to open the doors to Wolf Springs Middle School as we begin the 2026-27 school year," said Courtney Domoney, Wolf Springs Middle principal. “My hope is that WSMS will be a warm, welcoming
Renovated Family and Consumer Sciences (FACS) classroom at Blue Valley North
school filled with joy — one that inspires and empowers every student throughout their middle school journey.”
Across the district, projects were designed to meet both current and future needs while enhancing the student experience at every level.
Multipurpose additions at two of the district’s middle schools, auxiliary gym additions at two of the high schools and weight room additions at three of the high schools created additional spaces that support evolving student needs and the district’s commitment to creating and maintaining exceptional environments that foster lifelong learners.
All five high schools and Blue Valley Academy received renovations to their Family and Consumer Sciences (FACS) classrooms. These newly renovated spaces were designed with open layouts, commercial-grade equipment and upgraded technology that provide students with hands-on, real-world
Wolf Springs Middle
Multipurpose addition at Pleasant Ridge Middle
learning environments while helping them develop problem-solving and career-ready skills.
Districtwide upgrades to safety and security systems, including door hardware upgrades, intercom replacements, camera improvements and door access controls, are part of the district’s comprehensive approach to refreshing and enhancing existing layers of protection.
“This Bond is more than construction,” said Jake Slobodnik, Blue Valley’s Chief Operations Officer. “It’s an investment in safe, modern, student-centered spaces that will support Blue Valley learners for generations.”
While many projects are nearing completion, the impact of Bond 2023 will continue for generations of Blue Valley students. The improvements were designed not only to address current needs, but also to create flexible, futureready learning environments that adapt alongside students and programs. Learn
1
new middle school (opening August 2026)
3
Mobile removals at elementary schools
6
1
new early childhood classrooms at Hilltop Learning Center performing arts addition at Blue Valley North
3
New weight rooms and expanded P.E. spaces at BVN, BVNW, BVH
2 3
6
Family and Consumer Sciences (FACS) remodels at 5 high schools and Blue Valley Academy
new high school auxiliary gymnasiums and storm shelters at Blue Valley West and Blue Valley Southwest (approx. 21,000 sq. feet of shelter space added)
new middle school multipurpose additions and storm shelters at Harmony Middle, Pleasant Ridge Middle and Aubry Bend Middle(approx. 30,000 sq. feet of shelter space added)
32k iPads, Chromebooks and MacBooks replaced
1
building-wide envelope improvement project at Stilwell Elementary
150
panels of exterior security glass installed
700+
audio/visual wireless display upgrades
600+
district-wide security camera upgrades
3
full Performing Arts Center audio/visual system upgrades
300,000 sq. ft. of flooring replaced
P.E. & athletics addition at Blue Valley North
Learning space at Cedar Hills Elementary
A LIFECHANGING PROJECT: Blue Valley Femineers help elementary student ride toward independence
In neighborhoods across Blue Valley, laughter echoes through the streets as children ride bikes alongside friends, weaving through sidewalks and driveways. For many, learning to ride is a milestone — one that begins with a wobble, a push forward and the feeling of independence that follows.
For Oak Hill second grader Jon Silas Wiggins, this experience looked a little different. Born with a hand difference that affects how he uses a bike’s handlebars, riding a traditional bike has been more challenging.
“A lot of other kids are riding their bikes, and I need to catch up to them, even though I'm a very fast runner,” Jon Silas Wiggins said.
That’s where Blue Valley’s Femineers students stepped in. Drawing on engineering skills, they began designing a tool that would help Jon Silas Wiggins ride a bike.
“It’s just one of those rites of passage things,” said his father, Zachary Wiggins. “Everybody learns how to ride a bike. He loves bikes. He wanted a bike. He has a bunch of friends who have bikes.”
The district’s Femineer program, composed of high school students from across the district, was created to empower female students to build the skills and confidence to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) through hands-on, realworld design challenges.
“I saw that [the project] had ties to biomedical engineering, and I’m really interested in that field, so I got super excited,“ said Rebecca Antao, Blue Valley West junior. “I learned a lot of different uses of electronics. I feel like I could apply a lot of that to building prosthetics in my future career.”
With a clear goal in mind, the students got to work. For six months, they worked together to sketch, build and test different designs. During testing, they discovered new challenges when both prototypes broke while Jon Silas Wiggins was riding uphill—forcing the team back to the drawing board just weeks before the final showcase.
“It did cause some scramble and some redesign,” said Karen Stohlmann Henderson, Femineer sponsor. “They had some real crunch problem-solving. They held their own. They were calm. Nobody was freaking out in the process.”
When it finally came to revealing the bike in May, refreshed prototypes and all, the excitement on Jon Silas Wiggins' face made every setback worth it.
“I started tearing up a little bit because he looked so happy,” said Isabella Large, Blue Valley Northwest junior. “This project is something that I’ve really enjoyed doing. It always paid off—especially seeing the look on his face whenever he got to finally ride his bike.”
Now, with a bike uniquely his own, Jon Silas Wiggins is ready to ride alongside his friends, experience the
independence and excitement of biking and carry forward the friendships formed with the Femineers.
“All those girls are super sharp,” said Zachary Wiggins. “They have their idea, but then also being able to take that and apply it to a real person and a real situation and see that maybe engineering is more than just a career path, maybe it’s also a way that we can change lives and make a difference. I think [this project] has made that real for those girls.”
To learn more about this project, scan the QR code to watch a video.
"My coaches and my principal, Doc Austin, made a huge impact on me, and I passed a lot of those lessons down to my daughter, who is now coaching in the district. My time in Blue Valley gave me the confidence to do things on my own."
KRISTIN RAMSEY
CLASS OF '86
BLUE VALLEY HIGH
CHUCK MAGEE CLASS OF '80 BLUE VALLEY HIGH
“We were growing as a district by over 700 students a year [during my time as superintendent], but at the same time we kept our academic standards. The thing that stands out about Blue Valley is the teaching and support staff, administrative staff, quality students and parental support. That’s a powerful combination for success.”
DAVID BENSON SUPERINTENDENT '93-'04
CURRENT BOARD MEMBER
A legacy 60 years in the making BLUE VALLEY SCHOOLS
“The heart of Blue Valley remains the same as it did when I went to school there. Yes, it's so much larger, but they still support every kind of student. They are all valued and encouraged to find their own path."
“I’m very proud that Blue Valley has kept high standards and maintained them. One of the things my dad (former superintendent Dr. James C. Thompson) was most proud of was the district’s Blue Ribbon schools. That was a huge accomplishment, and today, there are so many of the schools that are still upheld to those same standards.”
KELLEY WALKER
CLASS OF '86
BLUE VALLEY HIGH
MARIE JENSEN
CLASS OF '97
BLUE VALLEY NORTHWEST
“When my family moved from upstate New York to Kansas I thought I'd be living on a farm, not in a growing suburb with growing opportunity. Looking back, I feel very privileged to have attended Blue Valley Schools. We had so much opportunity available, which set the tone for our futures.”
What stands out to me the most is the many amazing teachers I had K-12. I was fortunate to have Mrs. Christensen as my 6th grade math teacher at Oxford. Mrs. Christensen went out of her way to make her math class enjoyable and approachable. Fast forward to my junior year at Blue Valley Northwest, I had her son, Mr. Matt Christensen as my American History teacher. I was so blessed to have both of them pour into me during my years in Blue Valley. It’s because of them that I grew up to become a teacher myself back in Blue Valley.”
MEGAN NAZERETH
CLASS OF '02
BLUE VALLEY NORTHWEST
60 YEARS AS A SCHOOL
For 60 years, Blue Valley Schools community defined by growth, Over six decades, the district has community it serves, helping shape and preparing students to navigate
As the district celebrates this milestone on the people, programs and moments its legacy. Through the voices of community members, Blue Valley’s innovation and a commitment
“What stands out most to me is the dedication to student learning, creative exploration, and individual growth shown by staff. My greatest investment was in the band program at Blue Valley North. Because of the support and opportunities provided by Dr. Marion Roberts and Mrs. Mary Watson, I fostered a strong love for music and for building relationships. “
1960s
• Unification of Southeast Johnson County Unified School District #229
• James McAnamy named superintendent of district
1970s
• Blue Valley High opens (unification of Stanley High and Stilwell High)
• Southeast Johnson County Unified School District #229 renamed to Blue Valley USD #229
1980s
• Blue Valley North opens, establishing a second high school in the district
1990s
legacy years making
SCHOOLS CELEBRATES SCHOOL DISTRICT
Schools has been at the heart of a excellence and opportunity. has grown alongside the shape generations of learners navigate their future with purpose.
milestone anniversary, it reflects moments that have shaped of alumni, students and Valley’s story is one of connection, to helping every student thrive.
JOSH MADDUX CLASS OF '09
BLUE VALLEY NORTH
Educational Foundation created Northwest opens Academy opens breaks ground
“I was truly connected to my high school. When the world seems so big, it’s important to remember that the connections we foster in Blue Valley remain at the forefront. We are a big district, but tight-knit, which I think early alums would appreciate that we still have some type of “small town” vibe.”
AMBER MAGEE CLASS OF '11 BLUE VALLEY HIGH
EVANNA DOMINIC CLASS OF '22
"When I was in high school at Blue Valley Southwest, my teacher saw the potential in me, so I started to be a mentor in an adaptive PE class. I was the first person with Down syndrome to become a mentor in the class, and it changed my life."
KATIE MORRISON CLASS OF '22 BLUE VALLEY SOUTHWEST
“Blue Valley had a huge impact on my life. I met my husband our freshman year at BVNW. My students asked me recently why I wanted to come back to Northwest, and I told them it’s my home- I love it here. It’s a privilege I do not take lightly to get to work in this district!”
ALYSSA THOMAS CLASS OF '13
BLUE VALLEY NORTHWEST
“Blue Valley allowed me to have an education that has carried me through my time in my Bachelor’s and Master’s programs, where I feel capable and confident. I also still keep in touch with numerous teachers from K-12, and they continue to be some of my biggest cheerleaders, which I feel is unique to Blue Valley.”
CASSADY LILLY CLASS OF '16
BLUE VALLEY NORTHWEST
“One of the most memorable aspects was the relationships built with teachers, mentors, and classmates. The educators were not only focused on academics but also invested in helping students develop confidence, leadership, and character. Their encouragement often pushed students to take on challenges they might not have otherwise considered. Looking back, Blue Valley wasn’t just about coursework or activities—it was about the experiences and connections that helped prepare students for the next stage of their lives.”
“Blue Valley has given me all the tools to enter the next phase of my educational journey with confidence. Blue Valley taught me that the tools to engineer your success are out there, but it's up to you to seize them. I have been given amazing opportunities to go the extra mile and stand out among my peers. I will forever be grateful for the experiences and knowledge I have gained.”
WILLIAM WALTER CLASS OF '38 LEAWOOD ELEMENTARY
COLLIN COLE CLASS OF '26
BLUE VALLEY WEST
“I hope {Blue Valley} helps me have two jobs when I'm a grown-up: a chef and a policeman. I want to learn about new subjects like Ancient Greece and I'm excited to pick new classes to go to, like Spanish and Music. I want to keep having fun things to read and have more nice teachers that help me learn.”
• Blue Valley West opens
• Center for Advanced Professional Studies (CAPS) program launches
2000s 2010s 2020s
• Blue Valley Southwest opens • Hilltop Campus opens
• Blended Learning program launches
• Career Ready Programs launches
• Youth Mental Health First Aid initiative begins
• District creates new strategic plan
• District celebrates 60th anniversary
News & Notes
Graduates named Presidential Scholars semifinalists
Blue Valley North’s Matthew Chen and Blue Valley Southwest’s Zayna Ahmed and Dane Weninger were named semifinalists in the 2026 U.S. Presidential Scholars program. The program, established in 1964, honors the nation’s most distinguished high school seniors for their academic success, artistic excellence, leadership and demonstrated commitment to high ideals. The three graduates are among just six Kansas students named semifinalists. Blue Valley Schools is the only district in the state with multiple semifinalists.
Area school districts form funding coalition
For more than 15 years, Kansas has failed to fully fund special education at the level required by state law. Local school districts have been forced to absorb those costs, pulling resources away from classrooms, staffing and student programs. The Kansas Public School Funding Coalition was formed by Blue Valley Schools, De Soto School District, Olathe Public Schools and Shawnee Mission School District because this situation is no longer sustainable. The effort is about accountability, protecting educational opportunities for all students and ensuring the State of Kansas meets its legal and constitutional responsibilities.
Students earn individual athletic honors
Blue Valley West’s Peyton Kubik was named the 2025-26 Gatorade Kansas Girls Volleyball Player of the Year. In addition to winning the 6A state championship with Blue Valley West Volleyball, Kubik was also recognized as the 2025 American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) Girls High School First Team All-American and 2025 Kansas Volleyball Association (KVA) 6A Player of the Year.
Blue Valley Southwest’s Alex Roberts was named the 202526 Gatorade Kansas Boys Cross Country Player of the Year. In addition to winning the Eastern Kansas League championship and placing second at the 5A state meet, Roberts also finished as one of the state’s top runners at the Nike Cross Regionals and Brooks Cross Country Regionals postseason meets. He became just the third Kansas runner to qualify for the national Brooks Cross Country Championships in the past 25 years.
Dane Weninger
Matthew Chen
Zayna Ahmed
Alex Roberts
Photo: KSHSAA Covered
Peyton Kubik
Photo: Sports in Kansas
Educators honored with BVEF awards
Mission Trail Elementary’s Abby Jones and Blue Valley Northwest’s Jeremy Mohn were selected as the 2026 recipients of the Blue Valley Educational Foundation’s (BVEF) Innovative Educator Award. The BVEF award recognizes two educators who go above and beyond to apply innovative teaching methods in the classroom by creating or using new strategies, tools or ideas to engage students and achieve improved student results.
Oak Hill Elementary’s Sara Byrd, Oxford Middle’s Sarah Babkin and Blue Valley North’s Anna Porter were selected as the 2026 recipients of the BVEF Champion for Students Award. The BVEF award recognizes exemplary staff members who demonstrate kindness and compassion, foster authentic connections and empower positive growth in students.
BVW educator named Master Teacher
Blue Valley West’s Dr. Heather Hall was named a 2026 Kansas Master Teacher. The award program, established by Emporia State University in 1954, recognizes excellence in Kansas educators. Dr. Hall, a science teacher who joined the district in 2010, was one of just seven selected from across the state.
Blue Valley residents age 60 and older who live within district boundaries are invited to enjoy free admission to regularseason home athletic events and performing arts productions through the Legacy Senior Pass. For drama productions and musicals, please call the individual school to reserve your ticket. Passes are not valid for Kansas State High School Activities Association postseason events or Eastern Kansas League tournaments.
To apply for a pass, visit the Blue Valley District Office or scan the code and complete the form at
Abby Jones
Jeremy Mohn
Sarah Babkin
Anna Porter
Sara Byrd
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